Diverticula are small pouches that can form anywhere in the digestive system but most commonly affect the large intestine, according to MayoClinic.com. Diverticula are common in adults over the age of 40, and the presence of these bulges in the digestive tract, which is referred to as diverticulosis, does not usually cause any problems. When the bulges become inflamed, the condition is referred to as diverticulitis, and the condition may cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms.
Cause
Although it has not been proven, the most widely accepted theory is that a low-fiber diet causes diverticulitis, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Fiber helps to prevent constipation by ensuring that the stools stay soft and can be passed easily. Lack of fiber in the diet leads to hard stools and constipation. When people are constipated, they have to strain during a bowel movement. The strain results in increased pressure on the colon, which causes the bulges, or diverticula. The diverticula can become inflamed when pieces of fecal matter or bacteria in the digestive tract become caught in the bulges, causing irritation.
Symptoms
One of the most common symptoms of diverticulitis is pain in the lower portion of the abdomen. According to MayoClinic.com, the pain is usually sudden and severe but in some cases can become increasingly severe over time. Other symptoms of diverticulitis include tenderness in the abdomen, changes in bowel habits, fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation. Severe attacks may cause bleeding from the rectum.
Diagnosis
Because diverticula on their own do not cause any symptoms, diverticulitis is most often diagnosed during tests for other conditions, such as a colonscopy to look for cancer, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. If diverticulitis is suspected, an abdominal ultrasound or computerized topography, CT, scan will be performed. An abdominal ultrasound can show the exact location of the diverticula. The CT scan can show if the diverticula have caused any complications, such as intestinal abscesses.
Foods to Eat
Most cases of diverticulitis can be managed by following a proper diet plan that includes plenty of fiber. Fiber will help keep the stool soft so that it can pass easily through the digestive tract without causing any flare-ups or symptoms. Some foods that are high in fiber include whole-grain breads, bran cereals, beans, fruits and vegetables.
Foods to Avoid
There have been no set recommendations on what foods those with diverticulitis should completely avoid. Although it has not been scientifically proven, many physicians recommend the avoidance of nuts, seeds and popcorn in order to prevent them from becoming trapped in the diverticula. It may helpful for individuals to keep a food diary to determine which foods exacerbate symptoms.
Considerations
Diverticulitis can cause permanent damage to the colon. If symptoms occur frequently or cannot be controlled with a change in diet habits and pain medications, surgery may be needed to remove damaged portions of the intestine and prevent attacks.
